Fall semester is right around the corner for upcoming and current college students, and one of my favorite times to shop for. I love shopping for dorm things, and school supplies; but it's also smart to save money while doing it! So how do we save money around this time of year? Some of us are adding to what we already have and others are shopping for a whole other bedroom.. well let me help you out.

If most of you don't know already I will be an upcoming sophomore in college this year. So I learned what to bring and what not to bring to college. I was one of those freshmen who brought WAY to much. I moved into my own room during the middle of the year, so that allowed me to bring more. This year I will have a roommate, so I guess I will have to downsize. My favorite part about moving into/to college is decorating your own space and making it your own. So I definitely go a little overboard, but hey, you only live in a dorm in these prime years.

Three Things to Think about When you are Dorm Shopping:

1. Research.

When you are first starting out with a blank canvas, make sure you research what you want! All those Pinterest boards, and Tumblr feeds: look them up to see where to start. See what best fits your personality and if you are having roommates and want to color coordinate with them. Planning out what you need and researching on your college page about what you need will help you in the long run. Most colleges have dorm lists on their website that will detail what you will need as well. One thing that some people may be surprised about is how much the YouTube can help you. So many people show Dorm Hauls and even Dorm Room Tours, so you can actually see what people get, and how people set up their space to get ideas. I did a lot of YouTube watching, and that's how I knew the best deals, and where to actually start looking. Also, you can plan out what you actually want, need, and where to get it.

2. Check with your Roommate:

If you have a roommate, try and contact them over the summer to see what they are bringing. You can split up the different things that you can share. Such as the microwave, refrigerator, the T.V. (if you want one). Things like that you can always split the cost or someone can by one or the other. Bigger things like that will save you a lot, especially since both of you will use it, it makes sense to share the cost. Also with checking with your roommate you can decide if you want to match your dorm things together or not.

3. Now... To the Shopping Part:

First, in all seriousness, make a list. This is probably the most time-consuming thing but it will help you in the long run, and second, actually keep up with it. When shopping you should go to places like Target, TJ Maxx, and Bed Bath and Beyond. Those are such good places. Now if you are looking to spend a little more, and want some different things you can look at Urban Outfitters for some unique home décor. Also, make sure you check out coupons, and apps like Retail Me Not to find discounts on items that you may want. You will be surprised at what you find.

When shopping for school supplies and dorm things make sure you can save as much as you can because you will definitely use that money during the year. Make sure your space says who you are, and has a cozy feel. Your dorm room will soon become your home away from home, and you will make great memories in this room. Getting ready to go out, early mornings, endless nights of homework, and getting drunk while playing card games with your friends. College is a time to find yourself, and when you should have the time of your life with your friends. Save money, and live better.